Three injured in prison blast

A boiler explosion at a Wisconsin prison results in injuries and an evacuation.

The natural gas explosion occurred at about 8:45 this morning at the Oakhill Correctional Institution in Fitchburg. Department of Corrections spokesman John Dipko says the blast occurred when workers were trying to re-light a pilot light that was out. A buildup of gas in the ceiling titles was ignited.

Dipko says three people were injured in the blast, two maintenance workers and an inmate. Dipko says the injuries are considered non-life threatening.

The blast occurred near the food service area, forcing an evacuation of several inmates. However, Dipko says the perimeter of the facility remained intact and there was no threat to the surrounding community.